Natural sources of water abound in Franche-Comté and we can count 3350 kms. of water-courses and no less than 80 lakes and 1000 ponds. The exceptional purity and energy of this water fascinate and reflect its power.
Turbulent paths of the river
A large number of rivers run through the Franche-Comté, among then the Doubs, the Saône, the Loue and the Ognon to name but a few. Their source is in the mountains. They travel from these mountain-sources beneath the earth to emerge at full force further down, sculpting the landscape as they pass in their eternal combat with the rock. This makes for spectacular sights such as can be appreciated at the sources of the Loue and the Lizon walking alongside the surprising Cascade du hérisson or along the Doubs to view the celebrated Saut or leap of the river with a drop of 27 metres. In contrast to all this turbulence there are the smooth still waters of the region's innumerable lakes and ponds.
Cold havens
The many lakes and ponds of the Franche-Comté inspire different sports and cultural activities. The Lake of Malsaucy is the seat or the rock festival of "Eurockéennes" and also a nautical base. Saint-Point is rated third most beautiful and unpolluted lake in France and turns into an enormous ice-skating rink in winter. Not far from here one can discover the peat bogs of Remoray which constitute a superb natural reserve and one is tempted to bathe in the cold waters of the equally reputed Lake of Narlay. Let us not forget the most unusual landscape of wild marshes of Les Mille Etangs, ideal for long rambles without specific destination. Given this great water-capacity it is not difficult to imagine that it serves also other purposes.
Harnessing the power of nature
A solid mass of concrete 130 metres high and 430 metres wide, the dam le barrage de Vouglans is one of the finest examples of arch dam to be found in France. Through this means the Franche-Comté takes advantage of the energy-potential that the land offers. The rivers descending from the heights of the Jura have tremendous power and also provide hydro-electric energy. There is nevertheless still room for leisure-activities: fishing, navigation, visits to the grottoes and underground caves, with each river leading one to different discoveries.
